Government Lacks Knowledge on Number of Foreign Troops in Germany

Mon 15th Sep, 2025

The German government currently does not have information regarding the number of foreign soldiers stationed in the country. This revelation comes from a recent response by the State Secretary for Defense, Sebastian Hartmann, to an inquiry made by the political party Die Linke.

In the inquiry, Die Linke sought clarity on the exact figures of foreign military personnel present in Germany. However, Hartmann's reply indicated that the government is not only unaware of the precise number but also does not actively seek to obtain this information.

This situation raises questions about transparency and oversight concerning foreign military presence in Germany, particularly as tensions in global geopolitics continue to evolve. The lack of clear data may hinder public understanding and the government's ability to address potential security concerns.

Foreign troops have been stationed in Germany for various reasons, including NATO commitments and international missions. However, without official statistics, it becomes challenging to assess the scale and implications of their presence.

The response from the Defense Ministry has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who argue that the government should maintain a comprehensive understanding of foreign military deployments within its borders. They emphasize the importance of such data in ensuring national security and fostering informed public discourse.

As debates on defense policy and military presence continue to gain momentum in Germany, the government may face increased pressure to provide more detailed information and enhance transparency regarding foreign troop numbers. Such actions would not only align with democratic accountability but also reassure citizens regarding their country's military landscape.


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